After a lengthy two-year wait, Andrew Painter’s return is finally on the horizon. The Phillies’ most highly regarded pitching prospect since Cole Hamels is set to take a major step back into professional baseball. Manager Rob Thomson has announced that right-hander will make his first official minor league start since 2022 with Single-A Clearwater, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from Tommy John surgery.
He was selected 13th overall in the 2021 MLB Draft, hasn’t pitched in a competitive minor league game in nearly two years. He was shut down early in 2023 due to elbow issues and ultimately required surgery, which sidelined him for two full seasons. Now, the Phillies are reintroducing their prized prospect with a cautious approach.
“We’re going to be careful and make sure we prioritize his health,” Thomson said ahead of Sunday’s game. “What matters most is that he gets through it, throws strikes, and his stuff looks good. That’s what I want to see.”
Andrew Painter looks to start the rehab process for Phillies after TJ surgery
Painter’s return to the mound will be carefully managed, starting with a brief, two-inning appearance and a schedule of one outing per week as he gradually ramps up his workload. The Phillies plan to slowly move him up through their minor league system over the next few months, with an eye on a potential MLB debut around mid-to-late summer — “July-ish,” according to team president Dave Dombrowski.
After spending two years sidelined, Painter made a strong comeback in last year’s Arizona Fall League, quickly reminding everyone why he remains one of baseball’s most highly regarded prospects. He recorded a 2.30 ERA over 15 2/3 innings and earned AFL Pitcher of the Year honors, showcasing his 100-mph fastball and a sharper slider developed during his long recovery process.
Painter embraced the opportunity to compete again in a real-game setting. “It was a big mental boost to get under the lights, face hitters with a real umpire, and move beyond throwing on the backfield,” he said during spring training. “It gives me more confidence heading into this season.”
The Phillies, currently 6-2 and near the top of the NL East, don’t have an immediate need for rotation reinforcements. With Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, Ranger Suarez, Cristopher Sanchez, and Jesus Luzardo leading the way — and Taijuan Walker on his way back — the team can afford to be patient with Painter. He may become a valuable addition later in the season, either as a starter, long reliever, or part of a six-man rotation.
“He’s got the potential to be a No. 1 starter,” Dombrowski said. “Maybe not right away, since we already have some strong arms, but his long-term upside is undeniable.” For now, the focus is simply on getting him through his first outing. After two years of setbacks, Painter’s journey back to the majors begins Friday.